Tuesday, July 22, 2008

New Music Releases: 7/22/08

I didn't give the Dr. Dog a glowing review, but it's still well worth picking up (especially if you're into soulful Lennon/McCartney inspired songs with nice Beach Boys-style harmonies). You might want to give local bands Bodies of Water and Low vs. Diamond a listen too.

Noteworthy Records Released on 7/22/08:Records I’ve Heard:

Arbouretum/Pontiak: Kale (Thrill Jockey) – On this release, Arbouretum sound like a more rocking (dirty 1970’s style) version of Will Oldham on this release. Pontiak is a new Thrill Jockey signee. The title of the record is a pun referring to the three John Cale covers. It’s an enjoyable listen. This is available digitally or as a limited edition (1,000 copies) split 12”.

Dr. Dog: Fate (Park the Van) – Given that We All Belong was #6 on my favorite albums of last year, this was one was eagerly anticipated. But expectations can be a motherfucker. The first half of Fate stacks up against their best work, but by the time track eight rolls around, I completely forget what I’m listening to. The fact that they made a song called “The Old Days” and it’s similar to “My Old Ways” might be a sign that they could have spent a little longer writing. Lyrically, it’s very dark. It’s still worth picking up, but you might want to temper your expectations a little. They’re a great live band, see for yourself at El Rey on 8/8/08.Download “The Old Days” and “The Ark”

High Places: 3/07 – 9/07 (Thrill Jockey) – Brooklyn duo that gets compared to Beat Happening and fits somewhere between No Age and Abe Vigoda. This is a collection of previously released songs available on CD for the first time. See them at the F Yeah Festival on 8/30/08 or at the Smell on 10/10/08.